Here it comes – summer is on the way! As a dad, it’s up to you to ensure that your family stays as cool as possible. Not only can the hot, sweaty summer weather get kids and adults in bad moods, but it can lead to heat exhaustion and serious problems. Luckily there are a few tips that will keep everyone in a good mood and feeling good.
1. Don’t forget the basics
There are two things you should never leave your hotel room or vacation home without: sunscreen and bottled water. Remember that you can burned even on cloudy days, even on rainy days – and even on days that are cooler than you were expecting. As far as water goes, you can bring any non-alcoholic beverage into the parks. Grab a water bottle for everyone and keep ‘em hydrated!
2. Check out Frog Toggs
One of the best ways to keep cool is to bring your own personal cooling towel. There are numerous brands out there, but long-time Disney visitors swear by the Frog Togg brand. The application is simple. You soak the towel in warm water, wring off the excess water, and then wear it wrapped around your neck. It keeps you cool for hours and when it dries out you simply re-wet and let it cool you again! They’re available in a wide range of colors so everyone can get one they love.
3. Bring a personal fan
There are also many fans you can get that will do the trick in a pinch. The problem with these fans is that they can be burdensome to carry around. However, dads with little ones that have strollers and diaper bags can certainly find a spot for a fan. In fact, you can find fans that will clip right onto the stroller itself to keep the kiddo cool.
4. Know which rides to stop in at
In each park there’s at least one ride that offers a relatively long ride experience in the cool air conditioning. In Magic Kingdom you can stop at Carousel of Progress or the Hall of Presidents, both of which generally have very low to no lines. At Epcot you can visit Ellen’s Energy Journey, which is approximately 45 minutes of uninterrupted air conditioning. At Animal Kingdom stop at The Festival of the Lion King, It’s Tough to Be a Bug, or Finding Nemo: The Musical for a break from the heat. Finally, at Hollywood Studios, you can stop in the Great Movie Ride or the Little Mermaid for relatively long, cool attractions.
5. Don’t forget the cooling power of a meal
Plan your meals around the hottest times of day and you’ll not only get the fuel you need to keep going, but you’ll have a chance to stop for a nice, cool, refreshing break. Make sure you stick with table service restaurants or find the counter service locations with indoor seating.
